2001 Tahoe brake light issue

[twenglish91]

Hi all. I recently bought a 2001 Tahoe. I'm having an issue with the brake lights. When you turn the truck on all three brake lights come on and STAY on. When you shut it off the brake lights function like normal. Does anyone know where to start as far as diagnosing the issue? If it makes any difference my "brake" and "ABS" lights on the dash are always on.

 

[OR VietVet]

Welcome to the forum.

I would first go to the heart of the brake light system. The brake light switch at the brake pedal assembly. Unplug it and plug back in and see what happens. If no difference, then replace the switch assembly with a Genuine GM part and please at least, not a Dorman part. Cheap attempt at fix. The next place could be thru the turn signal switch since the brakes work even when the turn signals are on, but I doubt it. Check all bulbs for proper lighting and proper bulb in socket as well.

 

[twenglish91]

Thank you! I'll give that a try and see what happens

 

[S33k3r]

You didn't add any LEDs did you?

 

[OR VietVet]

You didn't add any LEDs did you?

I keep forgetting about that option.

 

[S33k3r]

I keep forgetting about that option.

I always assume you purposely leave something out so I'll feel useful...

 

[twenglish91]

You didn't add any LEDs did you?

It had aftermarket LED headlights when I bought it but not the brake lights

 

[S33k3r]

It had aftermarket LED headlights when I bought it but not the brake lights

So, no, you did not add LED break lights? Assuming no LED brake lights, here are some things I've gone through on my trucks -- over the years: Bad multifunction switch (this is the switch that houses your turn signals and windshield wiper controls), bad wiring to the brake lights... But it sounds like you have a short that only activates when you are powering your vehicle. I'd trace the wires going from the brake lights back to the cab, at a minimum. My brake wiring frayed and eventually disintegrated. This may be at the beginning of that for you.

 

[NardDog]

Hi all. I recently bought a 2001 Tahoe. I'm having an issue with the brake lights. When you turn the truck on all three brake lights come on and STAY on. When you shut it off the brake lights function like normal. Does anyone know where to start as far as diagnosing the issue? If it makes any difference my "brake" and "ABS" lights on the dash are always on.

And you are sure that the brake bulbs are on as if depressing the brake or are they the bulbs that illuminate when the headlights are turned on for night driving?

 

[Rocket Man]

Does it do it when the ignition switch is in the on position or does the engine need to be running?